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How to Adjust Your Auto Insurance Policy When Your Car Isn't Running

At Rathbun Insurance, we understand that life can throw unexpected curveballs, and sometimes your vehicle may end up out of commission. Whether it's due to mechanical issues, repairs, or any other reason that renders your car non-operational, you may wish to review your auto insurance policy with your Rathbun Insurance Account Manager to ensure you're not overpaying for coverage you don't need.

When your car isn't running or isn't drivable, you're essentially paying for insurance coverage that you're not utilizing. This can lead to unnecessary expenses, especially if your vehicle is going to be out of commission for an extended period. By making adjustments to your policy, you can ensure you're only paying for the coverage you need, potentially saving you money in the long run.

If your car isn't drivable, the course of action you may consider could be to reduce or temporarily suspend comprehensive and collision coverage while maintaining liability coverage. Here's why:

  • Comprehensive and Collision Coverage: These coverages protect your vehicle in case of damage caused by accidents, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. However, if your car isn't running, the likelihood of these risks is significantly reduced. By temporarily removing these coverages, you can save on your premiums until your vehicle is back on the road.
  •  Liability Coverage: Liability coverage protects you financially if you're responsible for causing damage or injury to others in an accident. It's a crucial component of your auto insurance policy and is often required by law. By maintaining liability coverage, you ensure continuous coverage, which can result in better premiums when you need to reinstate comprehensive and collision coverage.

 One of the key benefits of maintaining liability coverage even when your car isn't drivable is the preservation of continuous coverage. Insurance companies often offer better premiums to policyholders with a history of continuous coverage, as it demonstrates reliability and lowers the risk for the insurer. By keeping your liability coverage active, you avoid any gaps in coverage that could result in higher premiums when you're ready to reinstate comprehensive and collision coverage. Additionally, continuous coverage may also qualify you for loyalty discounts or other benefits offered by your insurance provider.

Adjusting your auto insurance policy to reflect the current status of your vehicle is simple:

  • Contact Your Rathbun Account Manager: Reach out to your insurance agent or provider to inform them that your car is not drivable and discuss options for adjusting your coverage.
  • Request Changes: Request to reduce or suspend comprehensive and collision coverage while maintaining liability coverage.
  • Review Your New Policy: Once the changes are made, review your updated policy documents to ensure they accurately reflect your current coverage needs and premiums.
  • Stay in Touch: Keep your Rathbun Account Manager informed about any changes in your vehicle's status or your driving habits to ensure you have the appropriate coverage in place.

At Rathbun Insurance, we understand that life's circumstances can sometimes disrupt our plans, including the operability of our vehicles. When your car isn't running, it's essential to reevaluate your auto insurance policy to avoid overpaying for coverage you don't need. By reducing comprehensive and collision coverage while maintaining liability coverage, you can save money on premiums while preserving continuous coverage benefits. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can help you adjust your policy to suit your current needs.